Who Got Snubbed? Notable Absences from the 2025 MLB All-Star Starters
The reveal of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game starters on Wednesday evening has, as always, ignited passionate debate among fans and analysts alike. While the final lineups are stacked with household names and deserving talent, the process inevitably leaves some of the season’s top performers on the outside looking in. This year’s list of snubs is especially notable, given the number of breakout campaigns and resurgent veterans who failed to secure a starting spot despite their impressive statistics and impact on the field. The fan voting system, while democratic and engaging, often leads to tough omissions and, in some cases, controversial results.
One of the most prominent snubs in the National League is Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz. The 23-year-old star has electrified baseball this season, combining elite speed, power, and a flair for the dramatic that has made him one of the game’s must-watch young talents. Despite his highlight-reel plays and strong offensive numbers, he was edged out by Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets, who leveraged a strong June and the backing of a large-market fan base to claim the starting role. Similarly, at first base, Pete Alonso of the Mets was passed over in favor of Freddie Freeman. While Freeman’s consistency and leadership for the Dodgers are undeniable, Alonso’s home run totals and knack for clutch hitting have made his omission a hot topic, especially with the Home Run Derby looming.
The outfield selections also generated buzz, particularly with the exclusion of Washington Nationals rookie James Wood. Wood’s combination of power, patience, and defensive prowess has been a revelation for the rebuilding Nationals, yet he was outpaced in the fan vote by Pete Crow-Armstrong, Kyle Tucker, and perennial favorite Ronald Acuña Jr. Many believe Wood’s breakout first half warranted a starting nod, and his absence is seen as a missed opportunity to showcase one of the league’s rising stars on the national stage. In the American League, Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña was left out in favor of Athletics rookie Jacob Wilson. Peña, who has quietly put together an MVP-caliber season with elite defense and timely hitting, is widely regarded as one of the best all-around shortstops in the league, making his omission particularly surprising.
While most of these players are still expected to make the MLB All-Star Game roster in some capacity, likely as reserves, and should see playing time in Atlanta, the sting of missing out on a starting role is undeniable. For fans, these snubs provide plenty of fuel for debate and highlight the incredible depth of talent across MLB in 2025. As the season continues, many of these players will use the perceived slight as motivation. That added chip on their shoulder brings even more intrigue to the second half and the race toward October.
